Environmental Tech Students Visit Thompson Island Cultural Camp 

Submitted by Jordan Ann Kevan de Haan, Environmental Technician Program Coordinator 

Eighteen first-year Environmental Technician students recently participated in a full-day field trip to Thompson Island Cultural Camp in Akwesasne, funded by the donor-supported Extraordinary Learning Fund. The trip provided an immersive, hands-on experience, integrating Indigenous Ways of Knowing and Being into environmental studies. 

Accompanied by biology teacher Emilie DeRochie and Environmental Technician Program Coordinator Jordan Ann Kevan de Haan, the students engaged in a variety of educational activities, including a guided nature walk, plant identification and pressing, water quality testing, and a workshop on traditional sturgeon smoking. These activities helped the students apply their classroom knowledge to real-world environmental science while gaining an appreciation for the cultural significance of the land and water to the local community. 

Reflecting on the experience, Amelie Smale, a first-year student shared: “We learned a lot about the ecosystem on Thompson Island and we also got to hear about the traditional fishing practices for some the people in the region. My favourite part of the trip was getting to see a young sturgeon because that's not something I have ever seen before!” 

This trip aligns with SLC's strategic goals of promoting inclusive learning and fostering respect for Indigenous communities while enhancing career-ready skills through experiential education. 

To learn more about the Extraordinary Learning Fund and how to access funding for your class activity, email development@sl.on.ca.